Little Miss Sumo

Little Miss Sumo is a compelling, eye-opening 2018 documentary that shines a light on the traditional Japanese sport of sumo wrestling and the struggles faced by women who attempt to break into this male-dominated domain. The film gives us a profound insight into Japan's strict gender norms and the relentless determination of one brave woman who aims to shatter these restrictive boundaries. The protagonist is Hiyori Kon, a female sumo wrestler who is as passionate and dedicated as her male counterparts, yet constantly wrestles with societal norms and restrictions solely because of her gender.

Running for 19 minutes, this short film, directed by Matt Kay, portrays Hiyori Kon's life as she chooses the treacherous path and aims to make a difference in a world where tradition and gender biases constantly bar her way. Hiyori herself is a top-ranked amateur sumo wrestler in Japan, and her love for the sport is consistently highlighted throughout the film. She firmly believes that being a woman should not hinder her goals or her love for sumo wrestling, and thus decides to challenge the status quo and catalyze a change.

In Japan, professional sumo wrestling has been a staple of traditional and cultural pride for centuries. The sport is deeply submerged in ceremonial customs and has historically been restricted to men. Women, on the other hand, have been barred from competing professionally due to the belief that their presence in the ring is considered impure. This ban extends to the point where women are not even permitted to enter a professional sumo ring. Little Miss Sumo explores this and the many other impediments women face within Japanese society in their pursuit of sumo wrestling.

Hiyori's dedication and tenacity amidst these obstacles become the central theme, often leaving her grappling with a choice between pursuing her passion for sumo wrestling and conforming to societal expectations. The film captures the emotions of Hiyori's journey, oscillating between frustration, passion, determination, and hope, in a poignant and empathetic portrayal. Hiyori's journey single-handedly challenges one of Japan's oldest sports traditions and paves the way for future women to follow her footsteps into the sumo ring.

Besides focusing on Hiyori's struggles, the documentary takes viewers on a visually pleasurable journey into the heart of Japan, showcasing the various aspects of its rich culture and traditions. It portrays stunning shots of city landscapes, quiet towns, temples, and other elements of traditional Japanese architecture and décor, offering viewers a picturesque representation of this far-east country.

The film also dives into the daily rituals and routines of sumo wrestlers, their intense training sessions, lifestyle, and the reverence with which the sport is treated within Japan. It explores the deep spiritual significance of the sumo wrestling ring and the rituals performed within. While shedding light on the wide array of strict traditions and customs that form the sport's backbone, the film also goes behind the scenes to expose the raw physicality and intensity that goes into the sport's training and execution.

Despite its relatively short runtime, Little Miss Sumo presents a powerful narrative about gender equality, not just within the sphere of sumo wrestling, but in athletics in general. It illuminates Hiyori's more extensive quest to ensure gender equality in sports around the globe and fight for women's right to compete professionally in any sport they choose.

While the film confronts the harsh realities of gender discrimination, it also manages to uphold an optimistic note. It paints a picture of resilience and staying power, portraying how Hiyori chooses to stay defiant and true to herself and her passion for sumo, despite everything. Her harrowing struggle to overcome the odds piled against her will resonate with audiences around the globe and inspire countless others fighting for their beliefs.

In conclusion, Little Miss Sumo is a captivating documentary that succinctly encapsulates and unravels the societal norms and gender biases that still exist in the world of sports. It is a tale of endurance, defiance, and a dream to challenge conventions, told poignantly through Hiyori Kon's eyes. Yet, it isn't just a tale about pushing boundaries; it's a tale about recognizing and celebrating the potential in everyone, irrespective of their gender. The heartening belief that cuts through the film is not just that sumo wrestling can be for women, but that any field or profession can and should be open to everyone, irrespective of their gender. It's an empowering look at an ancient sport and a young woman's determination to make it her own.